Experience Hong Kong's glorious past

There is no city in the world quite like Hong Kong. Not only does it have a unique East-meets-West identity, it’s also a place where the traditional and the modern co-exist side by side. From temples built during the 19th century to preserved British colonial buildings that now house contemporary art galleries and cafés, the city has plenty to offer history geeks and art connoisseurs alike. From your base at Citadines Ashley Hong Kong – located in the heart of Tsim Sha Shui on Ashley Road – you can plot a course touring some of the city’s iconic landmarks and buildings.

HONG KONG HERITAGE DISCOVERY CENTRE

Housed in century-old buildings that used to be the former Whitfield Barracks, the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre houses the Explore Our Heritage permanent exhibition where you can check out Bronze Age pottery excavated from Lamma Island, along with other fascinating archeological findings.

Haiphong Road, Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui

1881 HERITAGE

The headquarters of the Hong Kong Marine Police from the 1880s up until 1996, 1881 Heritage is one of the best spots in Hong Kong to admire the well-preserved Victorian colonial and neo-classical architecture. It’s hard to believe that a part of these buildings used to be a prison for smugglers and pirates – today, it houses a high-end shopping mall as well as a luxury hotel.

2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Shui

STAR FERRY

Hong Kong Island and Kowloon may be well-connected via road and rail, but locals and tourists still rely heavily on the Star Ferry to shuttle between Hong Kong’s two main islands. Beloved for its efficiency and reliability, it also offers scenic views of the harbour.

Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Shui

CATTLE DEPOT ARTIST VILLAGE

A slaughterhouse for much of the 20th century, it was renovated and turned into an art community back in 2001. Today, it’s a great spot to check out the “Arts and Crafts” style of architecture. While you’re there, pop into Videotage, a UNESCO-listed art institution dedicated to video and other forms in new media.

63 Ma Tau Kok Road, Kowloon

AUSTRALIA DAIRY COMPANY

This is one of the most well-known cha chaan teng (casual eatery) in the city, so named because the founder had worked on a farm in Australia during the 1940s. Be prepared to join a long queue that stretches out the door, and share a table with other patrons. Locals flock here for the scrambled eggs and steamed milk pudding. Don’t expect too much by way of service - the staff are usually anxious to serve the next group waiting in line.

47 Parkes St, Jordan

K11

The concept of this unique destination is to bring art, people and nature in one integrated venue. There are exhibition spaces scattered throughout the mall, showcasing sculptures and installations, with a heavy emphasis on artwork by local artists. When your tummy starts to rumble, sink your teeth into a decadent, hearty burger at The Butchers Club, or slurp up some tsukemen (dipping noodles) at Tsukemen Mitaseimenjo.